After studying the first photos of the F80 M3 with its "power dome" we think that it may be a functional heat extractor vent underneath the camouflage. Let's analyze.

The shape of the bulge on the M3's hood is not the typical fully raised dome as seen on the E90/E92 M3 or E46 M3. Instead, it's a raised "U" shape with 3 raised sides while the area in between remains level with the rest of the hood. See the render below for a visual.

Assuming there is a functional reason for the hood dome in the first place, we can't think of a reason for this particular shape if the goal is to provide clearance for some engine parts underneath. However, the raised hood shape makes far more sense as a heat vent for the engine compartment. One only needs to look at the E92 M3 GT2 race car to see how the shape of the F80 M3's bulge matches that of heat extractor vent on the hood on the E92 M3 GT2 race car. They are very closely shaped and sized (see photos below).

If this proves correct, not only has the F80 M3 gained a sportier look, but it will have the added benefits of extra engine cooling, as well as the extra induction and engine noises that will better flow out from under the hood to give the M3 an even better sound. Oh, and it also gives the upcoming M3 an extra level of awesomeness.

[bpnews="BMW F80 M3 Hood Bulge Likely a Functional Heat Extractor Vent?"]Attachment 725951After studying the first photos of the F80 M3 with its "power dome" we think that it's likely to be a functional heat extractor vent underneath the camouflage.

Wow this turned out great I think I like the idea of this even better than the standard dome.

Yeah if this is a functional heat extractor it helps push me towards the turbo although I am still bitter they're leaving the high rev scene. Honestly, I feel they need more than 450hp to really satisfy me in the engine department if we're settling for a turbo. "But horsepower isn't everything" well when the other turbo cars are pushing 500 plus, M needs to at least be in the ballpark as I don't think it'll lose much weight.

That would be brilliant: pays homage to heritage (prior production M3s and racing), would provide great engine noise feedback, is fully functional, and helps differentiate the car from anything else out there. Since all M cars will be turbocharged going forward, this provides a big opprotunity for BMW to set a new iconic design standard for subsequent generations.

Dunno. To me the middle section of that bulge looks higher than the rest of the hood. Like a bulge with a ridge around it for aesthetic purposes. If it is a heat extractor, then they must have filled it in on the test car, which would make testing it tough. Could be wrong though.